UNIVERSAL TO RELEASE NEW RESTORATIONS OF DRACULA AND FRANKENSTEIN FOR IT'S CENTENNIAL YEAR in Universal Horrors Forum

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UNIVERSAL TO RELEASE NEW RESTORATIONS OF DRACULA AND FRANKENSTEIN FOR IT'S CENTENNIAL YEAR

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Scoundrel	UNIVERSAL TO RELEASE NEW RESTORATIONS OF DRACULA AND FRANKENSTEIN FOR IT'S CENTENNIAL YEAR	Lead	[-]
Jan 10 12 12:40 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	From a post at Nitrateville .com: UNIVERSAL PICTURES CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF MOVIE MEMORIES WITH YEARLONG CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 100th Anniversary Activities Include Major Film Restoration, New Logo Unveiling, Home Entertainment Offerings, Theme Park Celebrations, Signature Events and Sweeping Social Media Campaign Los Angeles, January 10, 2012 – Universal will mark its 100th anniversary in 2012, and will commemorate its centennial with a yearlong celebration honoring the studio’s rich film history and cultural legacy. The campaign draws its inspiration from Universal’s extraordinary and diverse library of films, many of which will be highlighted throughout the year, and is designed to engage fans of all ages in the art of moviemaking. A significant element of the centennial includes the extensive restoration of 13 of the studio’s most beloved titles such as To Kill a Mockingbird, All Quiet on the Western Front, Jaws, The Sting, Out of Africa, Frankenstein and Schindler’s List. Universal Studios Home Entertainment will kick off the celebration in January with a special 50th anniversary release of To Kill a Mockingbird, debuting on Blu-rayTM for the first time ever. Throughout the year, Universal will pay tribute to other influential films in the Universal library with special events and Blu-rayTM releases of such iconic classics as Jaws and E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, which celebrates its 30th anniversary. Universal will reveal an updated animated logo tied to the centennial. The animated logo will make its first appearance in front of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax at its premiere in February, and for that film’s U.S. theatrical release on March 2nd. (The new static version of this logo is unveiled today and is featured at the top of this release.) Other activities surrounding the studio’s 100th anniversary include a vibrant social media campaign, special events, theme park activities, promotions and many surprises to engage fans throughout the yearlong celebration. “This is a proud moment for all of us who’ve had the privilege of working at Universal Pictures,” said Ron Meyer, Universal Studios President and COO. “Our centennial is designed to bring special memories back to longtime movie lovers and fans, and to engage new audiences with our extraordinary library of films for the first time. Our goal, 100 years later, is to preserve, restore and continue the iconic legacy of this studio for generations to come.” Fans and film enthusiasts can start celebrating online today at the official Universal Centennial website, http://Universal100th.com, a one-stop destination dedicated to Universal’s 100 years. The site, as well as a number of social media platforms, will bring the centennial to life online. Universal will be sharing archival content on its brand new Tumblr (http://universal100.tumblr.com/); fans of Universal classics on Facebook will find exclusives and special opportunities across their favorite pages; followers of @UniversalPics on Twitter can find the activities using the hashtag #Universal100; Foursquare users who check in at iconic Universal locations such as the studio and theme parks will be able to unlock special behind-the-scenes tips and content; and for those who are followers of fashion, Universal’s Pinterest account (www.pinterest.com/universal) will be drawing inspiration from favorite films for everyone’s Pinboards, starting with 10 inaugural titles of pop-culture classics such as The Breakfast Club, Scarface, Sixteen Candles, Bridget Jones’s Diary and Bridesmaids. These online initiatives will roll out throughout various times of the year and will tie back to the Universal Centennial official site. In the spring, select fans will have the opportunity to attend a special gala anniversary celebration on the lot featuring many of the filmmakers and artists who shaped the studios history. In addition, the studio will spotlight the 100th Anniversary throughout various worldwide film festivals and other featured events, panels and activities. On April 30, 1912, Universal Film Manufacturing Company filed its certificate of incorporation with the state of New York. In 1915, Carl Laemmle officially opened Universal City, the largest film production facility in the world. Throughout Universal’s 100 years, the studio has served as a home for many of the most talented filmmakers of all time (such as Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, Peter Jackson, Spike Lee, John Hughes and Judd Apatow) and created films that have touched the hearts of millions and fueled culture’s fascination with cinema. To share the profound legacy of its artists, the studio will highlight their careers with touching personal stories from filmmakers, talent, crews, employees and fans. Universal’s key centennial activities included throughout the anniversary year are as follows: • Major Film Restoration Commitment Universal will restore 13 films over the course of the centennial year. The restoration effort includes the following films: All Quiet on the Western Front, The Birds, Buck Privates, Dracula (1931), Dracula Spanish (1931), Frankenstein, Jaws, Schindler’s List, Out of Africa, Pillow Talk, Bride of Frankenstein, The Sting and To Kill a Mockingbird. • Unveiling of New Logo Universal will reveal an updated animated logo at the February premiere of the upcoming feature Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax and at that film’s U.S. theatrical debut on March 2, 2012. The updated logo will be used on all Universal Pictures films going forward, and will be integrated into all aspects of the company’s business as well. • Home Entertainment Universal Home Entertainment will be introducing a limited edition 100th Anniversary Collector’s Series featuring some of the aforementioned film restorations on Blu-rayTM in collectible, book-style packaging showcasing rare movie memorabilia and brand new 10-minute video featurettes. In addition, special collections will be released throughout the year, culminating in the highly anticipated Blu-rayTM releases of Universal’s Classic Monster and Alfred Hitchcock series. A selection of movies that have shaped Universal’s legacy will also be released in commemorative packaging, many of them on Blu-rayTM for the first time ever. • Theme Park Celebrations Universal’s Parks and Resorts will help highlight the campaign with centennial specific content and merchandise throughout both the Orlando and Hollywood locations. The Orlando resort will soon announce a specially themed entertainment experience that will celebrate Universal’s heritage. At the iconic Hollywood park, the world-famous Studio Tour features expert guides that will take guests on a tour through 100 years of moviemaking history on the Universal Studios production backlot. Tours are conducted daily, visiting TV and movie sets ranging from the early Universal Studios monster film classics to current productions. • Website and Social Media Campaign Universal will be engaging fans across multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Tumblr (http://universal100.tumblr.com/) and Pinterest. At the center of all online initiatives lies a rich, robust website dedicated to all things related to the yearlong celebration of Universal’s 100th Anniversary. For more information, please visit http://Universal100th.com. For additional press materials, please visit the following links: https://universal.epk.tv/view/#/campaig ... nial-2012/ http://www.image.net/xads/actions/layou ... oot=15319& ABOUT UNIVERSAL PICTURES Universal Pictures is a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is part of NBCUniversal. NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake. Become a fan of Universal Pictures on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/UniversalPictures, and follow Universal on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/universalpics Last Edited By: Scoundrel Jan 10 12 12:49 PM. Edited 1 time.
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AnthonyOsika		#1	[-]
Jan 10 12 1:19 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	So what could reasonably be expected from a Dracula restoration?
BijouBob8mm		#2	[-]
Jan 10 12 1:20 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Wonder what we'll see with these latest editions of DRACULA, FRANKENSTEIN and BRIDE. In addition to (hopefully) improved picture and sound, are there any missing bits that have been uncovered and restored? (I keep hoping maybe a more complete version of Van Sloan's closing comments on DRACULA will one day turn up in some obscure corner of the world.)
Scoundrel		#3	[-]
Jan 10 12 1:30 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	" So what could reasonably be expected from a Dracula restoration? " How about a full frame, non cropped transfer and all the soundtrack for a start. The original titles without the jump cut in the sound track and the '31 trailer would be nice as well. http://monsterkidclassich...LA-Original-Title?page=1 Last Edited By: Scoundrel Jan 10 12 1:34 PM. Edited 1 times.
LCranston		#4	[-]
Jan 10 12 2:44 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	I'm a huge BUCK PRIVATES fan, but I admit I'm surprised Universal even remembers it exists. What could be restored about it? By itself the film hasn't been given an A-List home video treatment before. Deep water is dark and restful and full of peace.
WalesGuy		#5	[-]
Jan 10 12 3:17 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Wonder if these film restorations are the first of many. But, reading the press release again it doesn't actually say Dracula/Frankenstein/Bride will be released on Blu ray does it = blu ray is only mentioned for ET, JAWS, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
Victor Frankenstein		#6	[-]
Jan 10 12 3:26 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	WalesGuy: • Home Entertainment Universal Home Entertainment will be introducing a limited edition 100th Anniversary Collector’s Series featuring some of the aforementioned film restorations on Blu-rayTM in collectible, book-style packaging showcasing rare movie memorabilia and brand new 10-minute video featurettes. In addition, special collections will be released throughout the year, culminating in the highly anticipated Blu-rayTM releases of Universal’s Classic Monster and Alfred Hitchcock series. A selection of movies that have shaped Universal’s legacy will also be released in commemorative packaging, many of them on Blu-rayTM for the first time ever.
Victor Frankenstein		#7	[-]
Jan 10 12 3:30 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Sounds good to me! If they can get rid of some of the 'hiss' in the background of Drac, I'd be a happy man!
WalesGuy		#8	[-]
Jan 10 12 3:37 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Thanks Victor, missed that bit I do hope that all the Univ horrors will get the restoration treatment
Gorilla At Large		#9	[-]
Jan 10 12 4:07 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	"culminating in the highly anticipated Blu-rayTM releases of Universal’s Classic Monster and Alfred Hitchcock series". I wonder since they phrase the above statement as Universal Classic Monster Series that additional releases are being prepped that are not mentioned to also be released this year? I'd love to see the Wolfman, F meets the W and some Creature movies on Blu.....
cjh5801		#10	[-]
Jan 10 12 4:07 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	I'd really like to see an official re-cut of DRACULA as an "extra", at least. Anyone have an "in" with the powers that be? - Clark hollowaypages.com
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Jameson281		#11	[-]
Jan 10 12 4:32 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	AnthonyOsika wrote: So what could reasonably be expected from a Dracula restoration? I'm certain that no matter how much effort Universal puts into it, it won't be 100% perfect, and we'll get the usual batch of "Universal doesn't care!" posts.
BijouBob8mm		#12	[-]
Jan 10 12 4:53 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	I'll be waiting for feedback from others here before I rebuy, to see if there's enough difference to warrant yet another upgrade. Much as I love these (even springing for those last double discs of FRANKENSTEIN, DRACULA, WOLF MAN and THE MUMMY), when I stop to think of how many copies of these I've owned in various formats over the years...oy! I'm sure the Blu-Rays will look better than ever. When the DVDs came out, they looked better than ever in that format at that time. (And I'm sure whatever comes after Blu-Ray will look even better still...just not sure my eyesight will be good enough to appreciate the difference as the years pass.)
Joe Karlosi		#13	[-]
Jan 10 12 5:14 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	I have always said that if there is one thing I'd gladly keep re-buying and re-upgrading, it would be the old Universal Monsters. To get them on High Definiiton Discs would really be great, but that's assuming they really go the extra mile and look exceptional. Of course I'll bite if this all comes to be; I'm thinking it's a little early yet to get too excited, so for the time being I'll be waiting and watching. "Guy named Squeamy got thrown from the fifth floor. He's deader'n a mackerel."
Jameson281		#14	[-]
Jan 10 12 5:26 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	My enthusiasm is tempered by Universal's questionable track record with Blu-ray. They've been frequently criticized for excessive grain reduction. The worst-looking Blu-ray I own is probably Universal's TREMORS, which has had all the grain sucked out, leading to a lot of ugly shots that look overprocessed and unnatural. So although I'm eager to upgrade the Uni Monsters to HD, I think I'll wait for some reviews before placing my order.
taraco		#15	[-]
Jan 10 12 5:57 PM Burgomaster Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	We probably need a lot more information. If they simply take existing transfers and put them on Blu_ray at a higher resolution, yes, they will look better -- the same way any black-and-white film looks better on TCM's high def channel -- but that's not quite the same as a restoration, which includes careful cleaning of frames, enhancement and even restored footage. I doubt very much that any new or found footage will be included, so it becomes a matter of how well they can get the best source materials. BRIDE, especially, is in need of a real improvement. Some of the existing DVD versions are out of frame (the cross in the hermit scene can barely be seen where in other versions it is lower in the frame, etc.). But yes, here's hoping...
Scoundrel		#16	[-]
Jan 10 12 6:20 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	The Blu ray release of ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT will feature both of the Library of Congress restored sound and silent versions. What a thrill if DRACULA would be released in the same manner. " That would be glorious "
Rakshasa		#17	[-]
Jan 10 12 6:20 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	One thing's for sure, I can think of quite a few Universal Horrors I would personally prioritize over the Spanish version of Dracula (!), but that's just my opinion. Links To All The Classic Monster Stills I've Posted: http://monsterkidclassichorrorforum.yuku.com/topic/30758
Domenick Fraumeni		#18	[-]
Jan 10 12 6:59 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Funny, I was going to do one of those "I should know better by now" posts and inquire if over the years, was an extensive search done for any cut material from DRACULA or BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. Anyone know if any sort of a "final conclusion" was drawn in this regard?
Jameson281		#19	[-]
Jan 10 12 7:15 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Domenick Fraumeni wrote: Funny, I was going to do one of those "I should know better by now" posts and inquire if over the years, was an extensive search done for any cut material from DRACULA or BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. Anyone know if any sort of a "final conclusion" was drawn in this regard? I don't know, but the odds of any such footage is extremely remote. If it was cut from the movie, Universal would not have wanted to bother storing it. It could only have survived by mistake, if it was mislabeled or something.
Domenick Fraumeni		#20	[-]
Jan 10 12 8:10 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. I have this image of a smelly reel that goes "poof" when opened.
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